BBQ Jackfruit Pulled Pork Sandwiches (Print Version)

Smoky jackfruit with BBQ sauce, crisp coleslaw, and toasted buns make a hearty plant-based sandwich.

# Recipe Ingredients:

→ Jackfruit Filling

01 - 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in brine or water, drained and rinsed
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1 cup vegan BBQ sauce
11 - 1/4 cup water

→ Coleslaw

12 - 2 cups shredded green cabbage
13 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
14 - 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
15 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
16 - 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
17 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ For Serving

18 - 4 burger buns
19 - Sliced pickles (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Remove any tough cores and seeds from jackfruit pieces. Shred the jackfruit by hand or with forks to achieve a pulled texture.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
03 - Incorporate shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
04 - Pour in vegan BBQ sauce and water. Mix thoroughly. Simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until jackfruit is tender and the sauce has thickened.
05 - In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
06 - Toast burger buns if desired. Portion BBQ jackfruit onto the bottom half of each bun, top with coleslaw, and add pickles if preferred. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy weeknight meal that is ready in under an hour
  • Jackfruit perfectly mimics the tender texture of pulled pork
  • Uses common pantry ingredients so no hunting for specialty items
  • Naturally dairy free and vegan with easy gluten free adaptation
02 -
  • Jackfruit is whole food and rich in fiber
  • Great vegan main that satisfies even meat lovers
  • Leftovers keep well and reheat beautifully
03 -
  • Always shred the jackfruit by hand not with a knife for best texture
  • Do not skip toasting the spices in the oil with the jackfruit It is the secret for deep flavor
  • Use toasted buns and top with extra slaw for contrast and crunch